Irish clubs could play in PWR after IRFU confirm expression of interest

The IRFU have confirmed that its clubs could play in Premiership Women’s Rugby at some point in the future.

In March the English top flight competition invited women’s rugby programmes across the United Kingdom and Ireland to register their interest in potentially joining the competition regarded as the best in domestic women’s rugby.

On Thursday the IRFU exclusively revealed to the Irish Independent their expression of interest, although it is believed that the union have entered the process alongside the Celtic Challenge competition, which houses teams from Ireland, Wales and Scotland.

“The IRFU has noted the update from Premiership Women’s Rugby regarding the opening of expressions of interest for future seasons,” Lynn Cantwell, Head of Women’s Strategy for Irish Rugby, said in a statement issued to the Irish Independent.

“It’s positive to see new ideas and opportunities emerging that support the continued growth of the women’s game. Women’s rugby is moving forward quickly, and the IRFU is already engaged in substantial work to accelerate the development of the game in Ireland as part of our current women’s strategy.

“This includes our ongoing investment in the Celtic Challenge, changes to the domestic club competition and other key pathways initiatives, which remain central priorities for us.

“The IRFU has expressed its interest in the PWR process and looks forward to exploring the potential opportunity further that could enable us to grow the game.

“Any developments will be carefully considered within the context of the whole game and what best supports long-term growth for our clubs and provinces. Our focus remains on building a strong, sustainable future for women’s rugby across the island.”

Since Celtic Challenge’s inception in 2023, Irish teams have dominated the competition. In the first year a Combined Provinces XV were winners, while across the past four seasons the Wolfhounds have been winners. For two year’s Ireland’s second team, Clovers, have been runners-up.

The submission of expression of interest interest is being used to “help inform planning for the league’s future competition structure” and help with the development of a model designed to sustain “long-term sporting success, enhance commercial growth and strengthen the league’s position” as one of the foremost competitions in the world.

At the start of April, Wales head coach Sean Lynn – who coached Gloucester Hartpury to a trio of PWR titles – was also enthusiastic about the prospect of a Welsh team joining PWR in the future.

“As soon as I saw it come out, it’s very exciting,” Lynn said. “We’ll definitely put our expression of interest into it and see where we go from there.”